Spoiler alert: It depends on many factors.
We asked experts to weigh in on polycrylic vs. polyurethane to help inform your decision.
Why Does Choosing the Right Wood Finish Matter?
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It directly influences the level of protection, maintenance requirements, and overall appearance, she explains.
What is Polycrylic?
Polycrylic is a water-based protective finish used on stained wood surfaces.
Gaurav says it’s ideal for indoor wood projects where a crystal-clear finish is desired.
Polycrylic doesnt handle high heat well, as well.
What is Polyurethane?
Its highly durable, especially oil-based polyurethane.
And according to Day, polyurethane is easy to apply.
(Its thick, making it less messyAKA less drippyto handle.)
VOC Levels
Oil-based polyurethane ranks highest in terms of VOCs, whereas polycrylic is lowest.
Water-based polyurethane stands between the two.
Polycrylic is typically just brushed on.
But polycrylic has a much faster drying timeroughly 3 hours compared tooversix for polyurethane.
Keep in mind, both types require multiple coats for optimal results.
Smaller pieces of furniture or trim are best for polycrylic.
